The 26-year-old rookie forward could have been an unrestricted free agent after the season. He's tied for third on the Canucks with 43 points and second with 21 goals, his first season in North America after eight seasons in the Kontinenal Hockey League.
"I like the fans. I like my partners in the game. I like the coaching staff," Kuzmenko said Friday. "I'm happy in Vancouver, why not sign two years? I think it's a good deal for two sides. And my side is a good bridge (deal) in Vancouver. ... For me it's a very important moment because I don't like changes [and] a second team in the NHL is a new city, new team... it's not a good situation."
Kuzmenko signed a one-year, entry-level contract July 13. He had KHL career-highs of 20 goals, 33 assists and 53 points in 2021-22, his final season in Russia.
"He's very offensively talented. He's got a lot of skill," said Elias Pettersson, one of Kuzmenko's linemates. "He makes plays and obviously we thrive off each other. He deserves it's. He's been playing good this year. … Good players find a way, which he had, but also you don't know how quick guys can translate to the NHL. He's done a great job."
The Canucks (19-26-3) host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday (10 p.m. ET; SNP, BSOH, ESPN+, SN NOW). They are 1-1-0 since Rick Tocchet replaced Bruce Boudreau as coach Sunday.
"He's a very skilled guy," Tocchet said. "Knowing you have him another two years, he can score. There's work to do with him to be a complete player but one thing is he can score and we're excited about that. ... Around the net, he's a bull. ... But we've got to work on his defense. We've got to work on some habits to be a complete player."
